Overview
What are Panel PCs?
Industrial Panel PCs are all-in-one computing solutions that combine a high-performance motherboard, processor, and storage with an integrated touch-screen display. Unlike office-grade computers, these units are engineered for 24/7 operation in harsh environments, featuring fanless cooling, high vibration resistance, and wide operating temperature ranges. They serve as the primary human-machine interface (HMI) for complex machinery, providing the processing power necessary for SCADA applications, data logging, and edge computing.
Main Manufacturers
Palm Parts Solution stocks and distributes Panel PC hardware from industry leaders known for long-term availability and modularity:
- B&R Industrial Automation: Known for the Automation Panel and Panel PC series, B&R focuses on high-resolution displays and seamless integration with the Automation Studio engineering environment.
- Beckhoff: A pioneer in PC-based control, Beckhoff offers the CP series (Control Panels) and CX series (Embedded PCs). Their hardware is optimized for EtherCAT communication and TwinCAT software integration.
Typical Applications
Panel PCs are deployed where standard PLCs lack the visualization or data processing capabilities required for the task.
- SCADA & MES Integration: Running complex supervisory software that requires Windows-based environments.
- High-End Machine Visualization: Displaying 3D CAD models, high-resolution diagnostics, or video feeds for operator assistance.
- Food & Pharmaceutical Processing: Utilizing stainless steel, IP69K-rated models for hygienic environments.
- Edge Computing: Processing sensor data locally before transmitting condensed information to the cloud or corporate ERP systems.
Selection Guide
When selecting a Panel PC for your facility, consider the following technical specifications:
- Display Size and Touch Technology: Choose between 7" to 24" screens. Decide between Resistive touch (operable with heavy gloves) or Projected Capacitive (PCAP) multi-touch for modern gesture control.
- Processing Power: For simple HMI tasks, Intel Atom or Celeron processors are sufficient. For data-heavy SCADA or vision applications, opt for Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processors.
- Mounting Type: Determine if you need "Panel Mount" (installed into a cabinet door) or "Pole/Arm Mount" (using VESA or specialized 48mm tubing) for ergonomic positioning.
- Environmental Protection: Verify the IP rating. Most units offer IP65 protection on the front, while specialized "All-around IP65" models are required for stand-alone mounting outside of a cabinet.
- Storage & OS: Select between CFast, SSD, or HDD storage. Ensure the hardware supports your required Build of Windows 10 IoT, Windows 7 (for legacy migrations), or Linux.
1 product · Beckhoff
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an Industrial Panel PC and an Industrial Monitor?
An Industrial Panel PC integrates a powerful processor and motherboard directly behind an LCD display, whereas an Industrial Monitor is simply a display device that requires a separate PC or controller to function. Panel PCs are complete computing units capable of running Windows or Linux OS and hosting HMI software locally.
What are the standard power requirements for Panel PCs?
Most B&R and Beckhoff Panel PCs support 24 VDC input, which is the standard for industrial control cabinets. High-performance models may have varying current requirements depending on the processor (e.g., Intel Core i5 vs. Atom) and whether they are powering external USB peripherals.
Can these units be used in washdown environments?
Standard Panel PCs feature an IP65 or IP66 rated front bezel, protecting against dust and water jets. For deployments in food and beverage or chemical processing, "Full IP65" or "Stainless Steel" models are used to ensure the entire housing, including ports, is protected against high-pressure washdowns.
Are B&R and Beckhoff Panel PCs interchangeable?
Yes, most B&R Automation Panel and Beckhoff units are designed with standardized video and communication interfaces. However, mounting dimensions (cutout sizes) vary between manufacturers. When replacing an older unit, we recommend checking if a transition frame is required to match existing panel cutouts.
Which communication protocols do Panel PCs support?
Common protocols include EtherCAT, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and Modbus TCP. Because these are PC-based systems, connectivity is managed via standard Ethernet ports or specialized fieldbus cards (e.g., Beckhoff FCxxxx series) to communicate with PLCs and I/O.